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Forensic Laboratories Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience as a forensic science practitioner in either private or public forensic laboratories is highly valued but not required. Experience teaching courses at the university level is preferred.

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Forensic Laboratories information

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$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic laboratories jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic laboratories in the United States is $61,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a forensic laboratory role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a forensic laboratory position, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant degree and, in some cases, professional certification. Proficiency with laboratory instruments such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, and evidence management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills are standout soft skills in this field. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring accurate evidence analysis, maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings, and clearly presenting findings in reports and courtrooms.

What is the difference between Forensic Laboratories vs Crime Scene Investigators?

AspectForensic LaboratoriesCrime Scene Investigators
CredentialsForensic scientists often hold degrees in forensic science, chemistry, or biology; certifications vary.Typically have degrees in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fields; may hold certifications in crime scene processing.
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing evidence with specialized equipment.Field setting, collecting and documenting evidence at crime scenes.
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private labs, government agencies.Law enforcement agencies, police departments, crime units.
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for their roles in evidence analysis and crime scene processing.

Forensic laboratories focus on analyzing evidence in a lab setting, while crime scene investigators collect evidence at crime scenes. Both roles are essential in criminal investigations but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in forensic laboratories?

Professionals in forensic laboratories often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, meeting tight deadlines for evidence analysis, and maintaining meticulous documentation for legal proceedings. The work can be detail-oriented and requires strict adherence to quality assurance protocols to ensure results are accurate and admissible in court. Additionally, collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is frequent, requiring clear communication and the ability to explain complex scientific findings in an understandable way.

What is a high paying job in forensics?

In forensic laboratories, forensic toxicologists and forensic pathologists tend to have the highest salaries, often due to advanced education, specialized skills, and certification requirements. These roles typically require a medical degree or advanced training and offer higher compensation compared to other forensic positions.

What are forensic laboratories?

Forensic laboratories are specialized facilities where scientific analyses are conducted to support criminal investigations and legal proceedings. In these labs, experts use techniques from chemistry, biology, toxicology, and other sciences to examine evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, and trace materials. The results from forensic labs help law enforcement agencies solve crimes, identify suspects, and provide crucial evidence in court. Forensic laboratories must adhere to strict protocols to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their findings.
More about Forensic Laboratories jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Laboratories jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Laboratories job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Laboratories jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Laboratories jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Laboratories job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

SP Director of Forensic Services

StateJobsNY

Albany, NY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Duties Description Oversight and management of the New York State Police Crime Laboratory System.
Act as a liaison with district attorneys, courts, police agencies and other government agencies involved in forensic and criminal justice services.
Maintain contact with other laboratories in the State of New York to ensure application of best practices, continuity of efforts and help eliminate duplication in analyses of evidence.
Oversees administration of all Troop Forensic Identification Units regarding training, equipment, case review, technical procedures, safety and health, professional development, inspection and proficiency testing.
Maintain contact with other forensic laboratories in the United States and internationally, to obtain, implement and continuously improve and apply the best forensic technology, procedures and practices in the NYSP Crime Laboratory System.
Responsible for oversight of research, evaluation, acquisition, validation and implementation of new forensic technology.
Responsible for oversight of the Statewide Automated Fingerprint Identification System (SAFIS) site, assigned to the State Police.
Responsible for oversight of the National DNA Index System (NDIS), assigned to the State Police.
In conjunction with other laboratory supervisory personnel, ensures the integrity and quality of forensic analyses and reports.
Oversee the preparation of communications regarding laboratory business and correspondence.
Ensure the management, operations, personnel procedures, equipment, physical plant, and health and safety procedures of the NYSP Crime Laboratory System have met, and will continue to meet, the established standards set forth by the FBI Quality Assurance Standards for DNA Casework and Databank, the American National Standards Institute National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Accreditation, and New York State Forensic Laboratory Accreditation.
Monitor grants, including ensuring that appropriate grant funded opportunities are solicited and obtained. Ensures that the terms and conditions of grants are met.
Maintain liaison to and participation in forensic science organizations to formally represent the New York State Police Crime Laboratory System.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Extensive knowledge of the theory, principles and practices of forensic science; in collecting, examining, and analyzing evidence; quality assurance and quality control; laboratory accreditation; and in the prosecution of criminal cases.
Extensive knowledge of federal, state and municipal laws, regulations, and procedures as applied to forensic science work and criminal investigations.
Knowledge of NYS Executive Law Article 49-B, the Commission of Forensic Science, and the DNA Subcommittee.
Knowledge of governmental finance and management accounting.
Experience in testifying in court as an expert witness.
The ability to provide leadership and to maintain harmonious, professional relationships with State Police personnel and other law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local levels as well as district attorneys and the courts.
The ability to plan, organize, direct and control the work of employees.
The ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
The ability to advance original research in the development of new and improved methods of forensic science.
The ability to work cooperatively and constructively with other forensic laboratory directors and leadership to ensure the best application and continuous improvement of forensic technology, policies and procedures.
The ability to evaluate, acquire, validate and implement new forensic technology.
The ability to assess and implement best practices across all aspects of the forensic enterprise.
Membership in professional forensic science organizations such as the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences on the local or national level.
Working knowledge of applicable laws and regulations dealing with the effective operation of a forensic laboratory in New York State including, but not limited to, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Public Employees Safety and Health Act (PESHA) standards and requirements.
Minimum Qualifications A Master's Degree in a Natural or Physical Science, Administration (e.g., Public Administration, Business Administration or Criminal Justice) or Computer Science and ten years of progressively responsible experience as a forensic analyst/scientist, including at least seven years supervisory forensic laboratory management experience,
OR
A Ph.D. in a Natural Science, Forensic Science, Medical Technology, or Pharmacy and eight years of progressively responsible experience as a forensic analyst/scientist, including at least seven years of supervisory forensic laboratory management experience,
AND
Must satisfactorily complete a background investigation to be an employee of the New York State Police, meet applicable residency requirements, and comply with the New York State Ethics Law and the Rules and Regulations of the Superintendent of State Police with regards to outside employment.
Preference will be given to individuals who meet the following qualifications:
Advanced work to the level of a doctoral degree.
Trained as an ANAB, A2LA or ISO forensic laboratory Inspector.
Previous supervisory experience in a full-service ANAB or A2LA New York State accredited forensic laboratory facility.
Additional Comments Starting Salary: $191,148.00
Resumes will be evaluated to determine whether candidates will proceed to the interview phase of the process.
The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any candidate unless the candidate provides documentation that they are authorized to accept work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is the policy of the New York State Police not to hire F1 or H1 visa holders for permanent employment or to sponsor non-immigrant aliens for temporary work authorization visas or for permanent residence.
The New York State Police values a diverse and inclusive workforce where the unique skills of all employees are valued in support of the mission of the Division. Qualified candidates are considered for employment without the regard to age, race, color, religion, gender identity and expression, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. The New York State Police is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that accept all applications from a wide range of candidates.
The New York State Police complies with federal and state laws and makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with the disabilities and/or sincerely held religious belief. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Division Personnel Office at (518) 457-3840 or personnel@troopers.ny.gov.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Mr. Christopher Siciliano, Director of Human Resources
Telephone 518-457-3840
Fax
Email Address Personnelresumes@troopers.ny.gov
Address
Street 1220 Washington Avenue
Building 22
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12226
Notes on Applying Kindly submit a cover letter, complete resume and transcripts via Email to personnelresumes@troopers.ny.gov.
Place in the subject line: Director of Forensic Services
Applicants must clearly demonstrate satisfaction of the minimum qualifications as described in the job posting by including this information in their resume; credit will not be given for experience or education that is not listed directly on the resume (e.g. in a cover letter or other supporting application materials). All statements are subject to verification, including transcript review.